Young people between the ages of 15 and 25 constitute a fifth of the world’s population. While they are often involved in informal, politically relevant processes, such as activism or civic engagement, they are not formally represented in national political institutions such as parliaments and many of them do not participate in elections. This can impact on the quality of democratic governance. The inclusion of youth in formal politics is important, as the 2011/2012 Arab States popular uprisings and various Occupy movements have demonstrated. In countries in transition, fresh ideas and new leadership can help to overcome authoritarian practices. Where youth-led protests have forced authoritarian regimes from power, significant frustration is likely to arise if youth are not included in new formal decision-making. This can destabilize democratization and accelerate conflict dynamics.
The EU Action Plan On Human Rights And Democracy 2020–2024 is a framework, one of purpose and direction, with a broad range of policies, tools, and political and financial instruments. This EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020-2024 is the third Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy adopted by the EU. As with the previous two Action Plans, the objective is to enhance and hone EU efforts to promote human rights and democracy worldwide.
